Rhinelander Community Foundation opens 2025 grant application cycle

The Rhinelander Community Foundation (RCF) has announced that its 2025 annual grant application cycle is open from now until Feb. 28. Qualified organizations serving the Rhinelander area are encouraged to apply for funding to support impactful projects and programs that benefit the community, RCF officials explained in a press release.

Since its establishment in 2015, RCF has distributed over $1 million in grants to local organizations. These funds have supported a wide variety of initiatives, addressing both current and emerging needs, the release states. In 2024 alone, RCF awarded $59,337 to 25 organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Rhinelander area.

This annual grant cycle is made possible through the Rhinelander Community Permanent Endowment Fund and additional non-endowed funds, sustained by donations from individuals and businesses within and beyond the local community. By pooling contributions of all sizes, RCF ensures resources are available to address today’s challenges while investing in the future, the release states.

Grants will be evaluated based on alignment with RCF’s mission, the community impact of the proposed project, the visibility of the initiative, the population it will serve, the demonstrated need for funding, and the financial management of the applicant organization. Through this process, RCF aims to support projects that advance the foundation’s vision for a thriving Rhinelander community, the release states.

Eligible applicants include charitable organizations classified as 501(c)(3) under the Internal Revenue Code, local units of state or national charitable organizations, schools, hospitals, governmental units, and religious institutions offering programs that serve the public at large. Additional details regarding project eligibility and funding guidelines are available in the grant application materials. RCF’s mission is to facilitate charitable giving and work with donors to enhance the quality of life in Rhinelander now and for future generations. With a vision of a community reaching its full potential through philanthropy, RCF is committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference, the release states. Grant applications can be accessed at RhinelanderCommunityFoundation.com.